Best cash back apps to save money in 2025
Cash back apps have become an essential tool for consumers looking to make the most of their everyday purchases.
These apps provide a convenient way to save money on everything from groceries to online shopping, giving users a percentage of their spending back.
Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, cash back apps can help you save with minimal effort.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the top cash back apps available in 2025, discussing how each one works, its main features, benefits, and drawbacks.
Keep reading to find the perfect app to help you earn cash back on your purchases.
Ibotta: One of the most popular cash back apps
Ibotta has earned a reputation for being one of the most popular cash back apps, and for good reason.
It allows users to earn cash back on both online and in-store purchases, offering a flexible way to save on a wide variety of products. But how exactly does Ibotta work, and what are its advantages and limitations?
How Ibotta works and what it offers
Ibotta works by offering cash back on purchases from a wide range of retailers, both online and offline.
Users start by selecting available offers in the app before going shopping.
After making the purchase, they can scan and submit their receipts to claim the rewards.
Ibotta covers categories like groceries, clothing, electronics, and even travel. What sets Ibotta apart is its frequent partnerships with well-known retailers, allowing it to provide exclusive offers that can significantly boost your savings.
In addition to the rebate system, Ibotta also features a “Pay with Ibotta” option, where users can pay for products directly through the app and earn cash back without needing to submit receipts.
The app also offers users the opportunity to redeem rewards via PayPal or gift cards, making withdrawals relatively easy.
Despite its numerous advantages, Ibotta has a few limitations. For instance, users can only redeem their cash back via PayPal or gift cards, which may not be ideal for everyone.
Additionally, some offers come with specific terms and conditions, making it important to read the fine print carefully.
Rakuten: Ideal for online shoppers
Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates) is another leading app that focuses on cash back for online purchases.
With Rakuten, users can earn cash back on purchases from a wide range of online retailers.
But how does Rakuten stand out in the crowded cash back app market?
How Rakuten works and what it offers
Rakuten’s main feature is its cash back offer for purchases made through its platform.
Users simply browse the Rakuten app or website, find participating retailers, and shop as usual.
Rakuten gives cash back on qualified purchases, which users can collect after completing a transaction.
One of Rakuten’s standout features is its high cash back rates on certain purchases.
Many popular retailers, such as Amazon, Walmart, and Macy’s, are part of Rakuten’s network, allowing users to receive cash back on a wide range of products.
Rakuten also offers a referral program, where users can invite friends to join the app and receive a cash bonus for each successful referral.
Additionally, Rakuten makes it easy for users to withdraw funds by sending payments via PayPal or issuing checks quarterly.
However, Rakuten does have some drawbacks. For example, users must make their purchases through the Rakuten app or website to earn cash back, meaning they cannot earn rewards for purchases made directly on a retailer’s site.
Additionally, Rakuten’s in-store offers are more limited compared to some other apps on the market.
Dosh: Instant cash back for your purchases
Dosh takes a different approach by offering automatic cash back without any extra steps required.
This unique feature makes Dosh particularly appealing to users who want a seamless experience when earning rewards.
How Dosh works and what it offers
Dosh automatically gives cash back to users when they make qualified purchases at participating retailers, simply by linking their credit or debit card to the app.
Unlike other apps that require scanning receipts or selecting offers, Dosh delivers cash back automatically after each qualified purchase.
This makes it a hassle-free option for people who want to earn rewards with minimal effort.
Dosh also offers significant cash back options in categories such as restaurants, travel, and everyday shopping.
It’s a great option for frequent travelers, as it partners with several hotels, airlines, and restaurants to offer savings.
The best part is that cash back is typically credited to your account immediately, allowing instant access to your earnings.
However, to withdraw funds, you must transfer the rewards to PayPal or use them for gift card purchases.
On the downside, Dosh is limited in terms of the number of participating merchants, so users may not find all of their favorite stores on the app.
Additionally, users must link their credit or debit cards to the app, which may not be appealing to everyone due to privacy concerns.
Fetch Rewards: Simplifying grocery shopping savings
For anyone looking to save money on grocery shopping, Fetch Rewards offers a straightforward solution.
This app focuses on grocery purchases, rewarding users for buying products from various brands.
How Fetch Rewards works and what it offers
Fetch Rewards works by allowing users to scan receipts from their grocery purchases and earn points, which can be redeemed for rewards such as gift cards or PayPal cash.
Unlike other apps that require users to select offers before shopping, Fetch allows users to earn points on almost every item they buy, including specific brand promotions that can lead to larger rewards.
The app regularly offers bonus point opportunities, giving users the chance to earn more by buying certain products or brands.
One of Fetch Rewards’ main benefits is its simplicity. The process is straightforward: scan your receipt, earn points, and redeem them.
Fetch also offers a variety of reward options, including gift cards for popular retailers such as Amazon, Target, and Starbucks.
However, the app is focused on grocery shopping, so users looking for cash back on other types of purchases, such as electronics or fashion, may find it lacking.
Additionally, Fetch Rewards’ point redemption system can sometimes feel slower than other cash back apps, as users must accumulate enough points before they can redeem them.
Upside: Cash back on gas and meals
For those who travel or dine out frequently, Upside offers a specialized cash back program focusing on gas and restaurant purchases.
This app is perfect for anyone looking to earn rewards on essential everyday spending.
How upside works and what it offers
Upside offers cash back on fuel purchases, allowing users to choose from nearby gas stations that offer the best deals.
After filling up, you can submit your receipt to the app and receive cash back. In addition to gas, Upside also offers cash back on restaurant and grocery purchases.
It’s a versatile app that can benefit people who spend a lot of time on the road or eat out regularly.
One of Upside’s key benefits is that it offers users instant cash back on fuel purchases.
It also frequently features bonus promotions for additional savings, making it an even more attractive option for savvy shoppers.
Like other apps, Upside allows users to withdraw funds via PayPal or redeem them for gift cards.
However, Upside’s coverage is somewhat limited to large cities, which could be a disadvantage for users living in more rural areas.
Additionally, users must submit their receipts for validation, which can sometimes delay the cash back process.
RetailMeNot: A cash back app with multiple discounts
RetailMeNot is widely known for its online coupon codes, but it also offers a cash back feature that can help users save even more on their purchases. Whether shopping online or in-store, RetailMeNot has something to offer.
How RetailMeNot works and what it offers
RetailMeNot provides cash back codes and coupons for a wide variety of retailers.
Users can browse the offers in the app and select cash back offers or discount codes that apply to their purchases.
One of RetailMeNot’s highlights is its vast selection of online and in-store deals, allowing users to combine cash back offers with promotional codes for maximum savings.
Additionally, the app includes a browser extension that automatically applies coupon codes when users shop online.
Despite these benefits, RetailMeNot’s cash back options are somewhat limited compared to dedicated apps like Ibotta and Rakuten.
The app also tends to have fewer options for everyday purchases like groceries, focusing more on fashion and electronics.
Payce: Cash back for every purchase
Payce is another app that rewards users for making purchases. Whether buying groceries, clothes, or services, Payce allows users to earn cash back on almost every transaction.
How Payce works and what it offers
Payce links directly to your credit or debit card, automatically providing cash back whenever you make a qualified purchase.
The app offers a wide selection of retailers, meaning users can earn rewards across a diverse range of categories, from clothing purchases to dining out.
After earning cash back, you can redeem it for payments or gift cards.
Payce’s greatest advantage is its simplicity and the broad selection of qualified merchants.
However, the app’s in-store shopping options are somewhat limited compared to other cash back apps, which may be a disadvantage for users seeking a more expansive rewards program.
PayPal Honey: Cash back and discount codes in one place
PayPal Honey is a browser extension that automatically applies discount codes when you shop online, but it also offers cash back for purchases made through its network of partner retailers.
How PayPal Honey works and what it offers
Honey is a browser extension that automatically searches for and applies the best discount codes when you shop online.
Additionally, the app provides cash back on purchases made through its network of partner stores.
It’s incredibly easy to use and takes the effort out of finding the best deals, making it an appealing option for those who shop online frequently.
However, compared to other cash back apps, Honey’s cash back rates are generally lower. It also doesn’t support in-store purchases, so it’s limited to online shopping only.
Cash back apps offer a simple and effective way to save money on your daily purchases, whether you’re shopping in-store or online.
Each app provides different features, making it important to choose the one that best aligns with your shopping habits and preferences.
By using the right tools, you can earn rewards on everything from groceries to gas, making your spending more rewarding than ever.
Start exploring these cash back apps today and save on your next purchase!
Don’t forget to check our website regularly for more tips and updates on how to maximize your savings with cash back apps.
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